Developing an information pack for the Asian carers of people with autism spectrum disorders

An investigation is described which forms the basis for the development of an information package for the Asian carers of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and learning disabilities. The results of semi-structured interviews and planning for questionnaires with three different linguistic Asian groups (Urdu, Gujarati and Bengali) are presented. The views, attitudes and awareness of autism, knowledge of support services and perceived priority of needs are analysed for the three different communities. The investigation concludes with recommendations as to whether separate information is needed by each culture or whether a single information pack can be used and presented in each language format. The possible presentation format in which the information can be produced is also discussed.